Viber announces today the release of version 4.0 of its platform on iPhone and Android. This is an important update to the platform since it brings two new core features including a brand new Sticker Market with many new stickers available for free and for purchase, and a new Push To Talk feature for instant voice messaging. The release also provides support for Android tablets, taking advantage of the new form factor. Additionally, this is the first release in which Viber will introduce a monetisation feature to its millions of users.
Viber Sticker Market - more stickers, more fun
Viber users love the multiple stickers they can share with other users of the platform. With the release of the Viber Sticker Market, users can access an even larger selection of fun and playful stickers. Additionally, the market will feature exclusive content tied into timely events and holidays throughout the year and will be regularly updated with new content to make messaging more relevant and personal.
Viber users have reacted enthusiastically to the stickers the company has already released, including Viber's signature character - Violet. As part of today's release, the company unveiled Mayo and Blu, two new featured characters, as well as many more new personalities that expand the cast of playful stickers Viber users can share with their friends.
Push To Talk (instant voice messaging) - communicate for free, instantly
Viber users' favourite contacts are just a tap away with the introduction of Push To Talk, an instant form of communication that lets Viber users send short voice messages to each other. Viber's Push To Talk is significantly better than that of other messaging apps. Typically, push to talk is a four-step process - record, send, download, play. Viber does all four at the same time. This way, the average response time to a 15-second message is four to six seconds, rather than 45 to 60 seconds.
"This is the most exciting release we've had for Viber since we launched the platform. Today's updated version brings a vast new range of features and functionality to Viber," said Talmon Marco, CEO of Viber. "Viber has always aimed to provide a complete communications experience. With the new features we've brought to the platform, Viber lets users connect and stay connected in more ways than ever."
Upgrades and enhancements from top to bottom
In addition to the major new features, Viber 4.0 is packed with upgrades, enhancements and new features that take the platform to a whole new level. New features include:
* Message forwarding to any group or contact
* Choose new conversation backgrounds from a custom background gallery
* Group conversations with up to 100 participants
Viber on Android, now optimised for tablets
Version 4.0 of Viber includes several new features available only on Android. Top among these is support for Android tablets. The new version of Viber has been designed to take advantage of the tablet form factor and users can now enjoy Viber on an unlimited number of Android tablets in addition to their smartphones. Viber's support of Android tablets is similar to that of desktops, bringing the user's mobile contacts to the tablet and providing full synchronisation with messages and calls on the other devices. Other Android specific enhancements include:
* Improved notifications for Android 4.0 and up
* Light Up Screen setting for incoming messages
* Use Viber messaging while on a Viber call
